Tips To Increase The Longevity Of Hardwood Floors

Genuine hardwood floors are an investment in your home’s beauty. They can also be a long-term option, with expected hardwood longevity lasting decades. Many historic homes still have their original hardwood flooring intact.

To make hardwood floors last, you’ll need to take some precautions. Follow the tips below to increase your hardwood flooring’s longevity within your home.

Natural Wood Stain Hardwood Floors

Make Sure It’s Installed Properly

A hardwood floor’s life span can extend to over a century when installed properly. However, wood floors can start showing their age quickly, and their warranty may be void if they were incorrectly installed. Professional installers should consider humidity and moisture during installation to ensure the floors have enough room to expand and contract. They also need to follow manufacturer directions closely to preserve the warranty.

If you want your hardwood floors installed correctly, contact Gil Hardwood Floors. Our experts have extensive experience with hardwood floors and can ensure your flooring looks fabulous.

Use Rugs to Protect Floors

Install rugs at entrances to ensure visitors and household inhabitants wipe their feet before walking on your floors. Adding a rug protects the wood from dust and scratches caused by tiny bits of debris tracked in from the outdoors.

Rugs can also preserve your wood floors in high-traffic areas, as the fabric can offer a buffer. Under heavy furniture, thick rugs look beautiful and save your flooring from dents, depressions and scratches.

Use Curtains to Prevent Fading

Ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the surface of hardwood floors. Direct exposure over time can cause fading — especially in areas of a room that get more sunlight — and create an uneven look. To defend against fading, install curtains or blinds and draw them whenever direct sunlight is on your floors. These coverings protect your flooring and any other items in your home, too.

Protect Flooring From Humidity

Moisture can harm wood floors. Where possible, avoid moisture — and especially moisture fluctuations — in any room with wooden flooring. You may wish to install a hygrometer to track moisture levels in your home. If you live in a humid climate, keep your house well insulated from the elements and use a dehumidifier to keep your indoor space dry.

Direct moisture on your floors can cause even more damage and lead to stains and rot. Always clean up spills promptly and fix leaks in your home immediately. When cleaning your hardwood floors, never use excessive water or liquid cleaning product. Wipe the flooring dry after you have finished cleaning. Use a dry or slightly damp cloth to clean your floors.

Install Hardwood Flooring in Your Home

If you want beautiful hardwood floors installed correctly so you can enjoy them for many years, contact Gil Hardwood Floors for an appointment. Our team of flooring professionals can show you samples of stunning hardwood floors in your home, so you can evaluate them in your lighting and with your furnishings. Gil Hardwood Floors can take care of the entire flooring process — from providing you with a quote to ensuring your new floor is installed successfully and beautifully.